By School of Engineering and Technology (SET)
19 February 2024: Nine students from the Structural Engineering Program (STE) of the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), accompanied by Dr. Krishna Chaitanya, Assistant Professor, undertook an enlightening expedition to the University of Tokyo, Japan. They were selected under the prestigious Sakura Science program for a week-long tour from February 12th to February 18th, 2024, which is supported by the Japan Science and Technology Agency.
The program was designed to introduce the students to Japanese advancements in technology and culture. The visiting students attended lectures from faculty members at the University of Tokyo on various topics such as earthquake engineering, disaster management, energy, and innovation. They also learned about re-insurance through a presentation by Gallagher Re, a reinsurance broker company.
Students also had the opportunity to understand Japanese culture, learn a bit of the language, and present their research in front of the faculty and students at the University of Tokyo. The visit also included tours of various facilities and labs on the university’s campuses.
Additionally, they enjoyed a weekend excursion to Gaikakuhosuiro, an underground reservoir designed to mitigate flooding in low-lying areas, a Shinkansen ride (high-speed train) from Oyama station to Tokyo, and a visit to the Industrial Heritage Information Center in Japan, gaining insights into the nation’s technological advancements.
Lin Htin, a Structural Engineering Master’s student, shared, “Participating in the Sakura Science Program has been an incredible journey of exploration and learning for me. I am grateful for the opportunity it has provided to delve into Japan’s advanced technologies and immerse myself in its rich culture. The discipline and lifestyle of the local people have left a profound impact on me, and I am inspired to pursue further studies or work in Japan, the land of the rising sun.”
The trip was a testament to AIT’s commitment to providing students with transformative international experiences, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and promoting academic collaboration. The students extended their sincere gratitude to the STE program, SET, AIT, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), RCAST, and the Sakura Science program for providing this invaluable opportunity for learning and personal growth and for their gracious hosting.
The Sakura Science Program (SSP) is an initiative by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) that aims to foster international collaboration and exchange in the field of science and technology. The program invites talented individuals from around the world to participate in various activities such as joint research projects, workshops, and seminars held in Japan
